Capt. Mark East’s Advice to the Careworn, Confused, Lovelorn and Other Outdoor People

Dear Cap’n Mark,
I’m in the Fire Dept. in a coastal town in New England and have quite a bit of time off. There’s a 65' stern trawler for sale in one of the local boat yards for $65,000. I think I can get it for less. I want to buy it. My wife thinks I'm crazy. I like the boat and think it would be a great liveaboard someday. Help me.
Signed, Boat lover

Dear Boat Lover,
She’s right. You are. If you do decide to go through with this, I would (a) plan to get a second and perhaps third job. (b) move the trawler to the fire station so you can work on it there...your only chance. (c) If you think it will take three years, plan on nine. (d) Find a good lawyer. Your wife will be suing for divorce within the year.

Dear Mr. Mark,
I’ve really appreciated your forthcoming and insightful advice. I am a college professor, age 56. I love to fish but have never fished in the ocean. On a lark, something I’ve never done before, I bought a 1988 Egg Harbor with twin diesels at auction for a very low price. I plan to go deep sea fishing. How do I start?
Signed, Anxious Rod

Dear Anxious Rod,
Charter !!

Write: capmarke@gmail.com